David Moyes has transformed Everton from a boring, defensive team into an exciting, attacking force. By giving creative players freedom and encouraging attacking football, Moyes has brought a sense of optimism back to Goodison Park, leading to improved results and a renewed sense of excitement among the fans.
Everton, a club steeped in history, had become synonymous with goalless draws and a stifling brand of football. The phrase, 'boring Everton' became a common sentiment among fans. But after their move to a new £800m stadium, something had to change. The arrival of David Moyes marked a turning point, as the manager looked to revitalize the club's attacking prowess.
The summer signing of Jack Grealish on loan from Manchester City alongside Iliman Ndiaye, added the missing spark. A 2-0 victory over Brighton felt like a breath of fresh air. The freedom and flair displayed on the pitch ignited a sense of optimism among the Everton faithful. Their subsequent 3-2 win against Wolves was a testament to their improved form, propelling them into the top five of the Premier League.
Last season, Everton languished at the bottom of the table, suffering a series of defeats. Their conservative approach often backfired, leading to dropped points and a lack of goals. They were struggling to score, ranking among the lowest in the league. Their defensive solidity was not enough to compensate for their attacking woes, making them a tough team to watch for supporters.
The new owners, the Friedkin Group, recognized the need for a change in direction. Thomas Frank and Graham Potter were considered as potential replacements. Eventually, they opted for a familiar face, bringing back David Moyes. Despite initial skepticism, Moyes has managed to rejuvenate the team's attacking output.
Under Moyes, Everton's goals per game nearly doubled, alongside an improvement in expected goals, shots on target, and shot conversion rate. They've transformed from one of the league's least efficient attacking sides to one of the most potent. Moyes has unleashed the creative potential of players like Tyler Dibling, Grealish, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, encouraging them to express their attacking flair.
The manager's tactical tweaks have also made a significant impact. Ndiaye has been encouraged to drift inside, while Vitalii Mykolenko has been granted the freedom to push forward. This tactical flexibility has enabled Everton to commit more players forward and create more scoring opportunities. Moyes has also kept up the defensive record that he had at the club previously.
Grealish, in particular, has thrived under Moyes' management. With four assists in just two starts, he's already proving to be a key player. Unlike at Manchester City, where maintaining possession was paramount, Grealish has been given the license to express himself and play instinctive football. His impact was evident in the games against Wolves and Brighton, where he had the most touches in the opposition's penalty area and contributed directly to several goals.
Everton's second goal against Wolves exemplified their newfound attacking fluidity. Four players combined seamlessly in a one-touch move, epitomizing the kind of football the fans have been craving for years.
David Moyes' Everton has also maintained their defensive discipline, conceding very few goals. By striking a balance between defensive solidity and attacking flair, Moyes is turning Everton into a formidable side that is both entertaining and effective. The roar of the home crowd is now fueled by genuine excitement for the future.
